Head of Development

Head of Development required by a leading local authority in West London to provide leadership and direction, operational management and financial control for the Development Service.

The post holder will implement the business plan, delivering multiple complex development schemes which include new housing and community assets including schools, workspace and community facilities, contributing to the building of 3,000 new energy efficient affordable homes constructed or underway by 2026. As well as manage the direct delivery programme and ensure all schemes meet key performance targets. These include, maximising the delivery of affordable housing and capital receipts, enhancing environmental performance, and generating a sustainable income stream to support the long-term viability of the Housing Revenue Account and General Fund.

This is a full time, permanent role – salary circa £87,000 to £102,000 per annum plus excellent benefits – hybrid working with great flexibility – offices based in West London (close to 3 TFL Underground stations)

Duties include:

• Ensure schemes within the direct delivery programme meet the council’s principles of engagement and co-production and, where relevant, engagement meets the principles of the Defend Council Homes Policy.
• Review the council’s asset base and identify the future pipeline of development opportunities and build the business case for investment.
• Develop and manage relationships with elected members and key external stakeholders including the GLA and developers in the borough.
• Lead complex procurement activities to appoint design, technical and professional consultants, and construction contractors to deliver development schemes.
• Develop, manage and maintain productive and collaborative relationships with stakeholders across the council to co-ordinate appropriate input in the design and construction process, ensuring handover and operation of new homes and assets is seamless.
• Be responsible for managing c.£0.5bn of capital budgets across the direct delivery programme and annual operational budgets of c.£1m
• Make a significant contribution to the leadership and senior management of the Place Division, its strategic and operational responsibilities, culture, staff, processes and standards in accordance with council policies and values.
• Provide expert advice to the Strategic Head of Regeneration, Development and Asset Management, Executive Director (Place), Chief Executive and Members, engaging with Cabinet, partners and colleagues to deliver the strategic vision.

Benefits include:

• Access to the Local Government Pensions Scheme
• Competitive annual leave entitlement
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee discount scheme
• Variety of flexible working options
• Employee volunteering scheme
• Employee assistance programme
• Excellent learning & development opportunities
• Performance management and career progression support.